Kamil Perry
When comparing the health benefits of a cheesesteak sub and Chinese food, it is important to consider the ingredients and preparation methods of each. Cheesesteak subs are typically made with beef, cheese, and bread, which can be high in fat, sodium, and calories. On the other hand, Chinese food offers a variety of options, including stir-fries, soups, and dumplings, which can be healthier choices depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. While some Chinese dishes may be high in sodium and calories, others can be rich in protein and vegetables, making them more nutritious options. Ultimately, the healthiest choice between a cheesesteak sub and Chinese food will depend on the specific ingredients, preparation methods, and portion sizes of each dish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese steak sub | High in fat and sodium, high in calories |
| Chinese food | Depends on the dish; some are high in calories, fat, salt, and sugar, while others are low in calories and high in protein |
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What You'll Learn
Chinese food has lower animal-by-product content than fast food
Chinese food typically has lower animal-by-product content than fast food. Fast-food burgers, for example, have been claimed to contain cow lips and cow bottoms, whereas Chinese food generally has a much lower, if any, content of animal by-products.
However, it is important to note that the healthiness of a meal depends on the specific dish and the quality of the ingredients used. For instance, while Chinese food may have lower animal-by-product content, it can still be high in fat and sodium. Dishes like fried rice, egg rolls, and cheese wontons are often loaded with fatty sauces and salt, increasing their calorie count. Similarly, fast food can also offer healthier options, such as grilled chicken sandwiches, which may be a better choice than some Chinese dishes that are deep-fried or covered in sugary sauces.
When choosing between a cheese steak sub and Chinese food, it is worth considering the specific dishes and their ingredients. Cheese steak subs can be high in fat and calories due to the combination of cheese and meat. On the other hand, Chinese food offers a variety of options, including stir-fries with vegetables and lean meats, which can be a healthier choice.
To make healthier choices when ordering Chinese food, consider opting for steamed dumplings instead of fried ones, choosing brown rice over fried rice, and requesting sauces on the side to control the amount you consume. Additionally, look for dishes with a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, water chestnuts, and bean sprouts, as they add fiber and nutrients to your meal.
In summary, while Chinese food generally has lower animal-by-product content than fast food, it is important to consider the specific dishes and their ingredients. Opting for healthier options and being mindful of portion sizes can help you make more nutritious choices when ordering Chinese food or any other type of cuisine.
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Chinese takeout has healthier options, like steamed dumplings
While both cheese steak subs and Chinese food can be high in calories, Chinese takeout offers healthier options. For instance, steamed dumplings are a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, with one medium steamed dumpling containing around 40 calories. Similarly, opting for steamed or boiled dumplings instead of fried ones can reduce the calorie count and fat content. Chinese soups are another healthy option, with a cup of wonton, egg drop, or hot and sour soup typically containing fewer than 100 calories. Starting a meal with a broth-based soup can also help you eat less overall.
When it comes to main courses, beef and broccoli is a simple yet healthy Chinese dish that is low in carbs and high in protein. Moo goo gai pan, a lightly sauced chicken and vegetable stir-fry, is another nutritious option. It is packed with vegetables and lean chicken, making it relatively low in calories and high in protein. To make it even healthier, ask for the sauce on the side to control your consumption of salt and sugar.
Stir-fries, in general, are a great choice when ordering Chinese takeout as they contain protein from meat or tofu, as well as vegetables, which provide fiber and essential nutrients. When ordering stir-fries, it is advisable to choose brown rice over white rice to increase the nutritional value of your meal. Additionally, cabbage is a healthy vegetable option that may offer cancer-protecting antioxidants.
While cheese steak subs may have higher calorie counts due to the presence of cheese, bacon, and ranch dressing, Chinese takeout can also be high in calories if you choose dishes loaded with fatty sauces and fried ingredients. Therefore, when ordering Chinese, it is advisable to opt for steamed or boiled options, choose dishes with lean protein and vegetables, and limit your consumption of soy sauce due to its high sodium content.
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Cheese steaks are high in fat and sodium
Cheese steaks are typically loaded with beef and cheese, making them high in fat and sodium. A cheesesteak sub contains multiple types of meat, cheese, and sauces, which can result in a high-calorie meal. The beef is often fried and covered in a sugary sauce, and the addition of mayonnaise can add 100 extra calories.
Cheese, in general, is a food that is high in fat. When paired with beef, which is also high in fat, especially when fried, the overall fat content becomes extremely high. Sodium, or salt, is also present in high amounts in cheese steaks due to the cheese and sauces used.
The high-fat content of cheese steaks can have negative health implications. High consumption of fatty foods, especially those containing saturated fats, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and weight gain. Sodium, meanwhile, is linked to high blood pressure and water retention, which can be detrimental to overall health.
However, it is important to note that the health impact of a cheese steak sub can be mitigated by the rest of one's diet and lifestyle choices. Occasional consumption of high-fat, high-sodium foods may not have a significant impact if the rest of one's diet is balanced and nutritious. Additionally, portion sizes play a role; a smaller serving of a cheese steak sub can reduce the overall fat and sodium intake.
While Chinese food also contains fatty and salty options, there are ways to make healthier choices. Chinese takeout can be made healthier by opting for steamed dumplings instead of fried ones, choosing brown rice over fried rice, and requesting sauces on the side to control the amount consumed. Certain dishes, like beef and broccoli or chicken and vegetable stir-fries, are relatively low in calories and high in protein.
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Chinese food can be greasy and fatty
Some Chinese dishes are stir-fries, which can be a great option as they contain protein from meat or tofu, as well as vegetables that add fibre and nutrients. Moo goo gai pan, for example, is a lightly sauced chicken and vegetable stir-fry dish that is low in calories and high in protein. Beef and broccoli is another simple stir-fried dish that is low in carbs and high in protein.
However, some Chinese dishes are deep-fried and smothered in sugary sauces, which can make them very high in calories. Crab, for instance, is an appetizer that is mostly cream cheese, wrapped in dough, and deep-fried, making it a calorie bomb. Another example is General Tso's chicken, a dish named after a Chinese war hero, which is breaded and fried chicken smothered in a sugary sauce.
The way a dish is prepared and cooked can also make a difference. Dumplings, for instance, are usually fried, but you can choose to have them steamed instead to cut down on calories and fat. Similarly, you can make Chinese soups healthier by avoiding fried lo mein noodles as a topping.
In conclusion, while some Chinese dishes can be greasy and fatty, there are healthier options available. It's all about making smart choices and being mindful of how dishes are prepared and what ingredients they contain.
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Chinese food can be high in salt and sugar
When comparing the nutritional profiles of a cheesesteak sub and Chinese food, one key area of concern in the latter is the often-high content of salt and sugar in many dishes. While Chinese cuisine offers a diverse range of flavors and cooking techniques, the presence of these two ingredients can have a significant impact on the overall healthfulness of the meal.
Salt, or sodium, is a necessary mineral in our diets, but excessive consumption can lead to a range of health issues. Chinese food often includes high levels of salt, which is used not only for flavor enhancement but also as a preservative. Dishes like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and salted spices are commonly used in Chinese cooking and can contribute to a significant portion of one's daily sodium intake. High sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure, water retention, and a greater risk of cardiovascular disease over time.
Sugar is another component that can be found in large quantities in Chinese food. Sugar is often added to sauces, marinades, and stir-fry dishes to balance out the savory flavors and add a desirable gloss to the dishes. Sweet and sour dishes, for example, rely on a significant amount of sugar to create their distinctive flavor profile. Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
The combination of high salt and sugar content in Chinese food can be a concern for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. While some dishes may be heavier on one ingredient or the other, it is important to be mindful of the overall balance of nutrients in a meal. When choosing Chinese food, it is beneficial to opt for dishes that feature fresh ingredients, minimal processing, and a variety of vegetables to ensure a more nutritionally balanced meal.
Additionally, there are ways to make healthier choices when opting for Chinese food. Requesting less sauce or asking for sauces and condiments on the side can help control the amount of salt and sugar added to a dish. Opting for steamed or poached dishes instead of fried can also reduce the overall fat and calorie content. Choosing brown rice instead of white rice can add fiber and nutrients to the meal. Being mindful of portion sizes and combining Chinese dishes with plenty of vegetables can also help create a more nutritious and balanced meal.
In conclusion, while Chinese food can be a delicious and varied option, it is important to be aware of the potential high levels of salt and sugar in many dishes. By making informed choices and being mindful of ingredient lists and cooking methods, it is possible to enjoy Chinese cuisine as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Comparing a cheesesteak sub and Chinese food nutritionally involves considering not only the main ingredients but also the condiments, cooking methods, and overall balance of the meal.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the specific dishes and ingredients, but generally, Chinese food is healthier than cheesesteak subs. While both options can be high in sodium, Chinese food typically contains less animal by-products and has healthier options like stir-fries, soups, and steamed dumplings. Cheesesteak subs are often loaded with cheese, fatty meats, and high-calorie sauces.
When ordering Chinese food, look for dishes that are steamed, baked, or stir-fried instead of deep-fried. Choose dishes with a variety of vegetables and lean proteins, such as chicken or shrimp. Ask for sauces on the side and limit your soy sauce intake to reduce sodium. Some healthy Chinese dishes include moo goo gai pan, beef and broccoli, and steamed dumplings.
To make a cheesesteak sub healthier, you can skip the cheese or choose a low-fat cheese option. Opt for whole grain bread instead of white bread, and avoid adding high-calorie condiments like mayonnaise or ranch dressing. Load up on vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content of your sub. If you're ordering a sandwich with multiple meats, consider choosing a single type of lean meat to reduce the fat content.
